Potato prices reduce and my storage strategy - a farmer's experience

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Nowadays, potato prices in Pakistan have come down to a great extent. It is discussed everywhere that potatoes are being sold at very cheap prices. The farmer's class, which works hard throughout the year, looks a bit upset nowadays. But in this situation there are opportunities that the farmer can take advantage of by benefiting his hard work. I am also one of the farmers who decided to store potatoes in view of the current situation.

I planned to store most of my potato crop this season. About fifty sacks of potatoes I have saved in my personal storage. These potato sacks are placed in proper temperatures, air transportation and sailors so that they are not damaged for long. When potato prices reach a reasonable level, they will be sold in the market.

When I went to my store today, I was surprised to see the scene there. The sacks of potatoes were visible everywhere inside the store. Almost every other farmer has adopted a strategy to store his crop. Some people have put potatoes in cold storage while some have stored them in their homes or rural warehouses. All this has been done in the hope that the demand for potatoes will increase in the coming months and then make better profit.

• Reasons for the decline in prices

There may be several reasons for the recent decline in potato prices. One of the major reasons is the abundance of the crop. This year, the production of potatoes is higher than in previous years. Second, the government's change in agricultural policies or the reduction of exports has also affected the market. In addition, storage can also be a cause because when a large number of farmers store potatoes, the market supply decreases, which can temporarily reduce the price.

• The benefits of storage

Potatoes are a vegetable that is used for months if it is properly stored. This is the reason why farmers wait for a better time by storing potatoes. I think storage is a wise decision, especially when the market situation is not favorable. This gives the farmer an opportunity to avoid immediate loss and can make good profit when the price is improved.

• Future expectations

If we look at past trends, potato prices improve at the end of the winter and the beginning of the summer. At this time, the market does not have a new crop and the supply of the previous crop is limited. At present, the same potatoes that are priced today are Rs 10-15 per kg, can reach Rs 30-40 per kg. That is why I thought it better to store my potatoes immediately.

• My personal experience

As a farmer, this decision was not easy for me. But I reviewed the market, consulted other farmers and took this step in keeping with my experience. Now I inspect the store daily, check the temperature and make sure the potatoes are in safe state. I pray that the coming days will be better for us and our hard work will not go unnoticed.

• Advice for Farmers

Finally, I would like to tell all my farmer brothers not to waste their hard work in a hurry. Store potatoes if possible, wait for the right time and keep an eye on the market. If we all work together with patience, understanding and strategy, we can benefit rather than harm.

Thanks for reading

Regard @shabbir86